Lee Enterprises of Montana’s acclaimed “Stories of Honor” series has been recognized with two prestigious national awards in 2025. The multimedia storytelling campaign, created in partnership with Brand Ave. Studios and AARP Montana, has earned a Gold NYX Award and a Communicator Award for Public Service Branded Content. These accolades celebrate the series’ exceptional storytelling, design and impact in honoring Montana’s living veterans and active service members.
“It is both an honor and privilege to work with AARP Montana; bringing these beautiful tributes to life is a true pinch me moment. Our team is inspired by these stories and feel equally thrilled to help readers experience that sentiment,” said Robin Gruen, vice president of Brand Ave. Studios.
“Stories of Honor” is more than a tribute — it’s a commitment to showcasing the courage, resilience and humanity of those who’ve served in the United States Armed Forces. Through monthly narrative features and photography, the series gives readers a personal view into the lives of Montana veterans and active military personnel. The project launches each year over Memorial Day weekend and runs through Veterans Day, reminding readers of the ongoing legacy of military service in communities across the state.
“We believe in honoring the sacrifices and stories of our veterans and active service members,” said AARP Montana state director, Tim Summers. “The ‘Stories of Honor’ series exemplifies AARP Montana’s commitment to amplifying their voices and experiences. We are proud to partner with Lee Enterprises and Brand Ave. Studios in this important initiative, which not only celebrates the bravery of those who have served but also fosters a deeper understanding of their contributions to our communities. These awards are a testament to the power of storytelling in connecting us all.”
The award-winning series appears in print and online across all Lee Montana publications: The Billings Gazette, The Montana Standard (Butte), Independent Record (Helena), Missoulian and the Ravalli Republic (Hamilton), as well as being shared on Facebook.
“This recognition affirms the deep connection these stories make with our readers,” said Dave Worstell, president and publisher of Lee Enterprises of Montana. “We’re honored to be trusted with sharing the personal journeys of those who have worn the uniform, and we’re grateful to AARP Montana for continuing to support this mission.”
The program invites the public to help celebrate the service and sacrifice of Montana’s military community by submitting the name of a veteran or active-duty service member for consideration online at flowcode.com/page/storiesofhonor. The veteran must be currently living and willing to participate in an interview. Of those submitted, ten individuals will be selected to have their stories featured in a special series beginning Memorial Day weekend and running through Veterans Day.
